Teams plan more space for sponsors on 2019 bodywork

© XPB 

Formula 1 teams have agreed to consider changes to regulations governing bodywork design in time for the 2019 season, according to reports.

The teams want more space on next year's cars to carry sponsorship.

Five teams made proposals at last week's Formula 1 Strategy Group. It's understood that two have been agreed by the group, meaning it's likely we'll see them on next year's chassis designs.

A proposal from McLaren to change the regulations on bargeboards is one of the two being taken forward. They will be lower, improving visibility on the side of the car around the driver's legs. As well as making more prominent display space available for sponsors, it's also considered more aesthetically pleasing.

A second proposal from Ferrari for simpler and less expensive rear wing end-plates will also go ahead. This will introduce a flat space at the top. It will also remove louvres that have got in the way of logo placement.

Both changes have already been analysed and discussed by the Technical Working Group.

However another proposal from Formula 1's director of motorsport Ross Brawn was strongly opposed by teams. Brawn wanted a simpler front wing design, but the suggestion didn't go down at all well.

Teams were unhappy with the aerodynamic impact of the proposed change. Ferrari reportedly even threatened to exercise its veto over new technical regulations to stop Brawn's plans.

A proposal to revive the controversial 'shark fins' was also considered. Originally derided by teams and fans alike at the start of 2017, the additional bodywork space has proved useful in accommodating mandatory driver name and number displays, as well as sponsor messages.

Other teams complained that the shark fins had adversely affected sponsorship on the rear wing.

Shark fins were quickly banned for 2018. However, teams came close to reversing their decision at the end of last season - only an objection from McLaren vetoed the U-turn.

This year's regulations will also put a stop to the 'extra wings' that have spouted on some cars as a result of a loophole in the original revised specification.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter